Medications are an important part of Glaucoma treatment.
It can also be very tricky for most patients, as Glaucoma medications have very strict dosage schedules.
Also, some Glaucoma patients may be under treatment for other health conditions.
Those medicines may treat other ailments but have side effects for Glaucoma.
Therefore, it is essential to have accurate knowledge about the medications you should take for your health condition.
In this article, we will discuss the Glaucoma medications to avoid in detail.
Determining the Type of Glaucoma
Before we begin with the list of Glaucoma medications to avoid, it is important to know which type of Glaucoma it is.
Glaucoma disorders are of two types – Open-Angle Glaucoma and Narrow-Angle Glaucoma.
Open-Angle Glaucoma occurs when the pressure in the eye increases slowly.
In Narrow-Angle Glaucoma, the increase can be sudden and severe.
The effects of different medications on both of these disorders may vary due to differences in their causes and symptoms.
A medicine that works fine for one disorder may cause side effects for another.
Most medication label warnings do not specify the type of Glaucoma being referred to.
This can lead to even more confusion and complications.
Therefore, it is necessary to ask your ophthalmologist which type of Glaucoma you have and take suitable treatment.
Medications to Avoid for Open-Angle Glaucoma
Steroids are the most common medications to be avoided in cases of Open-Angle Glaucoma.
This is because these medications increase eye pressure, which may worsen Glaucoma symptoms.
Examples of such steroids include certain allergy ointments, Arthritis injections, Asthma inhalers, etc.
Some steroids are taken closer to the eye, such as gels used on the face, pills ingested through the mouth, inhalers taken through the nose, etc.
Such medications can cause more damage than those taken at a distance from the eye.
However, even mild doses of steroids on areas away from the eye can cause significant damage.
Therefore, you must tell your ophthalmologist about your steroid intake history and dosage.
In some cases, Open-Angle Glaucoma may even be painful. To learn more about, read Is Glaucoma Painful?
Medications to Avoid for Narrow-Angle Glaucoma
Source: unctivitis is checkiSatjawat_Boontanataweepol'sThere are many medications to avoid when it comes to Narrow-Angle Glaucoma, also known as Angle-Closure Glaucoma.
This is due to the fact that a lot of general medications tend to block Acetylcholine.
It is the chemical in the eye that keeps the eye angle open.
Less Acetylcholine means that the eye angle will narrow down even more, worsening the condition.
Some medications may worsen this effect, making it essential to avoid using them.
These include Depression drugs, dilating eye drops, allergy or cold medications, migraine treatments, Antihistamines, etc.
However, this is not an inclusive list of medicines that may result in Acetylcholine blockage.
It is best to consult your doctor for accurate medication guidance.
To explore further about Glaucoma eye drops, read Everything You Need to Know About Glaucoma Eye Drops.
Since, Glaucoma medication is a vast topic, to know more, read The A to Z of Glaucoma Treatment and Prevention
Conclusion
Medications come with certain side-effects, especially for diseases like Glaucoma.
Therefore, it is essential to have clear knowledge about the type of Glaucoma you have and the other ailments you may have.
Most steroids show side effects for Open Angle Glaucoma.
For Narrow Angle Glaucoma, many general medications may prove harmful.
Medications that have potential side-effects must be avoided.
Consult your ophthalmologist about your medical condition and which medications to avoid.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best drug for Glaucoma?
There is no ‘best’ drug for Glaucoma, but Prostaglandin Analogues (PGAs) are the first choice of medical professionals. These drugs include Bimatoprost, Latanoprost, Travoprost, and Unoprostone Isopropyl.
What are some Glaucoma medications to avoid?
Medicines like steroids, Antidepressants, Antihistamines, etc. can cause side effects for Glaucoma patients. Your ophthalmologist may suggest avoiding these medications.
What medication increases the risk of Glaucoma?
Certain medications, such as Antidepressants, Antihistamines, Decongestants, etc. can lead to Glaucoma by increasing the inner eye pressure. This condition is called Drug-Induced Glaucoma.
What is the fastest way to bring down eye pressure?
Medications can be an effective way to bring down internal eye pressure. Along with that, exercise, elevation of the head during sleep, reduced caffeine intake, etc. may also prove beneficial.
What should Glaucoma patients avoid?
In addition to certain medications, Glaucoma patients should avoid exercises that may lead to increased blood flow around the eye, as it can increase the internal eye pressure.
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